The Brooklyn Academy of Music’s (BAM) annual benefit art auction keeps getting better. Launched yesterday, the online catalogue hosts the blue chippiest of blue chip artists, along with BAM’s trademark selection of up-and-coming artists. Those who have even an inkling that they might want some new art should take a look at the catalogue. The potential of ending up with a work of art at a great price is high, and should a bidding war occur over a desirable work of art, surely supporting BAM is worth going the extra mile. A cocktail reception will be held at BAM on the final day of the auction, April 10th, where all the work will be on display. May no enthusiast return empty handed!

There’s just nothing sexier than a well-made book, though they rarely bring in prices comparable to those for photographs and prints. With the rise of art book fairs I expect this will change in the long run, but for the moment the only book in the show is by superstar photographer Gregory Crewdson. I like it.

Up until stumbling upon her work yesterday in the BAM auction catalogue I knew very little about Kristen Schiele’s work. I still don’t know too much, but Schiele’s studio visit page on PS1 helps. As for this work, it’s listed because I really Schiele’s use of texture in this painting. There’s a lot of variation here, without overwhelming. Bid here.

Put Todd Norsten in the Kristen Schiele category of artists: I’ve only recently gotten to know this work. I don’t have anything particularly deep to say about the work, I just like that it’s a half of a three…or eight. Bid here.

Honestly, I’m still trying to figure out what the big deal about Liz Magic Laser is — she got a lot of ink during Greater New York last year — but you know, we can figure that out after someone buys this picture of meat being slipped into an ATM. Donating to BAM is a GOOD CAUSE. Bid here.

I’m not familiar enough with the Yuskavage market to know whether there are a lot of images like this floating around, but I really like it regardless. Everyone loves to hate Lisa Yuskavage, but this is a good example of some of her better work. Bid here.

I have happily supported BAM’s auction over the years, but this year it’s tough.
I love Dana Schutz, but the last couple of works she’s donated to charity auctions, while always a great gesture, leave a lot to be desired.
I’m also trying to figure Liz Magic Laser out, did you see her photo at fordproject? I think it may be one the best things I’ve seen from her, and I’m not sure that’s saying much.